New Graphene Road Surface Could End UK's Pothole Crisis
A groundbreaking graphene-enhanced road surface has been successfully tested in Teesside, North East England, potentially offering a solution to the UK's persistent pothole problem.
Potholed parking lot at Sutton Park
The innovation, developed by Universal Matter GBR Ltd, Tarmac, and Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, promises to reduce potholes, extend road lifespan, and create smoother driving surfaces.
Graphene, a single-layer carbon material arranged in a honeycomb pattern, is known for its strength and conductivity. When integrated into asphalt through Universal Matter's Genable Pavement additive, it significantly enhances road durability and resistance to wear and tear.
The project processed over 150 tonnes of graphene-enhanced asphalt at Tarmac's Coxhoe plant in Durham, which was then used to construct an entrance road at Flatts Lane Country Park in Middlesborough. This marks the first public road application following successful tests in car parks and test tracks across the US and Canada.
This development comes at a crucial time, as pothole-related vehicle repairs cost UK motorists £579m in 2024 alone, with a national economic impact of £143.5m annually. The enhanced durability of graphene-asphalt could significantly reduce these costs while promoting sustainable road construction through decreased maintenance needs.
The new material not only promises longer-lasting roads but also provides a smoother driving surface, potentially reducing vehicle damage and maintenance costs for drivers. Its successful implementation could revolutionize road construction and maintenance across the UK.
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